Jerusalem Municipality reaches out to families left homeless by the explosion

By JPOST.COM STAFF01/20/2014

Immediately following the blast on Monday, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat dispatched a powerful search-and-rescue operation that began to thoroughly comb through the debris, evacuating the injured and lending a hand to the shocked citizens of the area.

Barkat said that some 20 apartments could not be used following the blast and that the municipality would help to find housing solutions for the residents.

The rescue teams have briefed the families and offered temporary lodging in hotels. Most of the residents left to stay with family members and friends, while two families were put up in local hotels.

The emergency officials are also in touch with the relatives of the deceased.

Security forces and dangerous buildings experts are posted on site to prevent any further danger or injury,the road has been cleared of debris and is open to traffic.